A Guide to Shipping Chemicals and Dangerous Goods from China: Key Compliance Requirements

Introduction

For global buyers, ensuring the safe and compliant transportation of chemicals and dangerous goods sourced from China is a critical component of supply chain management. This article outlines the mandatory declaration processes and documentation requirements for shipping such cargoes via sea from Chinese ports, to help you understand and facilitate these compliance procedures.

Regulatory Framework

The sea transport of hazardous materials and chemicals is strictly governed by the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code and domestic Chinese maritime regulations. Incomplete or inaccurate declarations can lead directly to shipping delays, cargo rejection, and potential safety risks or legal liabilities.

Part 1: Dangerous Goods Declaration

Dangerous Goods (DG) refer to articles and substances explicitly listed in the IMDG Code. The Chinese shipper (or their designated freight forwarder) must submit the following core documents to the carrier (shipping line) and the port's Maritime Safety Administration (MSA) prior to loading:

• Dangerous Goods Declaration / Shipper's Declaration: A formal statement by the shipper affirming the goods are properly packaged, marked, labeled, and fit for sea transport.
• Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS/SDS): The technical document detailing the properties, hazards, and emergency measures for the substance. This is the foundation for all reviews.
• Official Approval Documents: Required for hazardous chemicals under import/export control regulations.
• Inhibitor/Stabilizer Additive Certificate: If applicable, specifying details.
• Packing Certification: Commonly referred to as the "DG Packing Certification," it includes the Performance Test Report and the Usage Appraisal Report for Export Dangerous Goods Packaging. It certifies that the packaging meets IMDG Code specifications. This is a mandatory document for packed dangerous goods.
• Container Packing Certificate (CPC): Issued by a certified cargo packer, confirming the dangerous goods have been correctly packed, secured, and segregated within the container.
• Additional Documents: Specific certificates, test reports, or assessment reports are required for radioactive materials, limited quantities, or "Not Otherwise Specified" (N.O.S.) goods.

The carrier will review all documents to verify compliance with the vessel's stowage and segregation requirements. Non-compliant documentation will result in cargo rejection.

Part 2: Marine Pollutants / Harmful Substances Declaration

Many chemical substances, even if not classified under a primary IMDG hazard class, may be designated as "Marine Pollutants" due to their potential harm to the marine environment. Declarations for such goods are managed under China's marine pollution prevention regulations. Key requirements include:

• Declaration of Fitness for Shipment (for harmful substances).
• MSDS for the harmful substance and emergency procedures.
• Packing/IBC/Portable Tank Inspection Certificates.
• Pollution Hazard Assessment Report: This is a critical requirement. For substances with unknown hazards, the shipper must provide a formal assessment report issued by a qualified agency to determine their classification. This document is often overlooked but is essential for shipping non-hazardous classified chemicals.

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